In “The Awe of God,” John Bevere masterfully explores a profound yet often misunderstood aspect of the Christian faith: the healthy fear of God. This concept, deeply rooted in reverence and respect, goes beyond mere fear; it embodies awe, wonder, and an understanding of God’s majesty. Bevere’s work is not just a theological exploration but a practical guide, inviting readers to experience a transformation through a deep, abiding fear of the Almighty.
Understanding the Awe of God
To grasp the essence of Bevere’s teachings, one must first understand what awe truly means in a theological context. Awe is the reverent wonder that arises when we recognize God’s infinite greatness. It is a dual experience of fear and reverence, where fear is not about terror but about profound respect for God’s power and holiness. This kind of fear is transformative, leading to a life that is aligned with God’s will.
“The Awe of God” : Structure of the book
The 42 chapters spread over six weeks in “The Awe of God” are designed to guide readers through a comprehensive exploration of holy fear. Each week focuses on different aspects of God’s nature, our response to His word, and the benefits of living in awe of Him. This structure allows readers to gradually deepen their understanding and application of the teachings, leading to lasting spiritual transformation.
Week 1: An Awesome God
The first week of the book introduces readers to the concept of an awesome God. Bevere explores God’s incomparable nature, His treasure, and the contrasting fears that can hinder our relationship with Him. He also delves into the importance of holy fear, the tangible presence of God, and the transformative power of beholding His glory.
God’s Treasure
The value of God surpasses all earthly treasures. In Scripture, we are reminded repeatedly of God’s incomparable worth. The fear of God enhances our ability to perceive His value, leading us to treasure Him above all else.
Contrasting Fears
Worldly fear and holy fear are vastly different. While the former paralyzes, the latter empowers. Understanding this contrast helps us to overcome the fears that the world instills, replacing them with a fear that draws us closer to God.
What is Holy Fear?
Holy fear is a profound respect for God’s authority and purity. It’s a fear that leads to life, prompting us to live in a way that honors Him. Biblical figures like Moses and Isaiah exemplify this kind of fear, which transforms lives and aligns them with divine purposes.
God’s Tangible Presence
God’s presence becomes tangible when we live in awe of Him. This presence isn’t just a feeling; it’s a reality that permeates our daily lives, guiding us and providing comfort. Those who have experienced God’s tangible presence through awe testify to its life-changing power.
An Unforgettable Evening
Encounters with God are often marked by unforgettable moments. These moments of awe leave an indelible mark on our souls, reminding us of His greatness and our smallness. They are spiritual milestones that we carry with us throughout our lives.
Beholding Him
To behold God is to see His glory. This spiritual vision is sharpened by awe, allowing us to perceive God’s majesty more clearly. Beholding Him transforms us, changing us into His likeness and drawing us deeper into His presence.
The Glory of God
God’s glory is the manifestation of His divine nature. It is a concept that is often difficult to grasp, but through awe, we begin to see glimpses of this glory. Living in awe of God enables us to experience His glory in our lives, making it a guiding light.
Week 2: Revealed As We Are
In the second week, Bevere shifts the focus to our own identity and how it intersects with our understanding of God. He discusses our true value, the dangers of pride, and the importance of recognizing God’s sovereignty. The week also explores the concepts of fear and trembling, contagious hypocrisy, and eternal decisions.
Your Value
Understanding our value in God’s eyes is crucial. Through the lens of awe, we see that our worth is not based on our achievements but on God’s love for us. This realization shifts our perspective, helping us to live confidently in our identity as His children.
The Fatal Collision
The collision between human sinfulness and God’s holiness is fatal, but it is also redemptive. Awe helps us to recognize our sinfulness and the need for God’s grace. It is through this recognition that we find true life in Him.
God Isn’t Watching
Many live as though God is distant, but awe awakens us to His constant presence. This realization challenges the misconception that God is not watching, leading us to live in a way that is mindful of His omnipresence.
Fear and Trembling
The Bible often speaks of fear and trembling as a response to God’s presence. This is not a fear that drives us away but one that draws us closer, reminding us of His greatness and our need for Him.
Contagious Hypocrisy
Hypocrisy spreads like a contagion, but awe acts as a vaccine. By living in fear of God, we cultivate authenticity and integrity, resisting the temptation to live a double life.
Three Images
Throughout the Bible, God is represented by various images that reveal different aspects of His nature. These images, when viewed through the lens of awe, deepen our understanding of who God is and how we relate to Him.
Eternal Decisions
Our decisions have eternal consequences. Awe helps us to make choices that are aligned with God’s will, ensuring that we live with an eternal perspective in mind.
Week 3: Irresistible Holiness
The third week delves into the pursuit of holiness. Bevere addresses the fear of man, the dangers of entitlement, and the importance of departing from evil. He also emphasizes the need for self-cleansing, our pursuit of God, and the desire and power that come from a genuine love for Him.
The Fear of Man
The fear of man is a snare, but the fear of God is liberating. By prioritizing holy fear, we overcome the need for human approval and live boldly in obedience to God.
Entitlement
Spiritual entitlement is dangerous, leading to pride and complacency. Awe reminds us that everything we have is a gift from God, fostering humility and gratitude.
Depart from Evil
Departing from evil is not just a command; it’s a way of life. Awe empowers us to reject sin and live in righteousness, following God’s path.
Longevity
Longevity is often tied to holy fear in the Bible. Those who live in awe of God are promised long life, not just in years but in the quality of life lived in His presence.
Cleanse Ourselves
Spiritual cleansing is essential for growth. Awe prompts us to purify our hearts and minds, ensuring that we remain vessels fit for God’s use.
Our Pursuit
The pursuit of holiness is driven by awe. This pursuit is not passive but active, requiring us to seek God diligently and live according to His standards.
Desire and Power
Desire for God and spiritual power go hand in hand. Awe fuels our desire for God, which in turn unlocks the power to live a victorious Christian life.
Week 4: Our Response to God’s Word
In the fourth week, Bevere explores our relationship with God’s Word. He discusses the importance of immediate obedience, the challenges of understanding God’s ways, and the concept of a “good pain.” The week also covers the significance of the finished work of Christ and how to sear a conscience.
Immediately
Immediate obedience to God’s word is crucial. Awe compels us to act without hesitation, trusting that God’s commands are for our ultimate good.
It Makes No Sense
Sometimes, God’s commands don’t make sense to our limited understanding. Awe enables us to trust Him even when we can’t see the logic, knowing that His ways are higher than ours.
No Obvious Benefit
Obeying God doesn’t always bring immediate benefits. Awe sustains us during these times, helping us to remain faithful even when the rewards are not apparent.
A Good Pain
Pain is often part of spiritual growth. Awe helps us to endure this pain, recognizing it as a necessary part of our journey towards maturity.
It is Finished
Christ’s declaration “It is finished” signifies the completion of His redemptive work. Awe helps us to grasp the full meaning of this statement, leading us to live in the victory of His finished work.
How to Sear a Conscience
A seared conscience is one that is no longer sensitive to sin. Awe prevents this spiritual numbness, keeping our hearts tender and responsive to God’s voice.
Week 5: Intimacy with God
The fifth week focuses on the pursuit of intimacy with God. Bevere explores the foundations of intimacy, the importance of knowing a different Jesus, and the dangers of spiritual complacency. He also discusses the secret of the Lord, the significance of face-to-face encounters with God, and the importance of true friendship with Him.
Where Intimacy Begins
Intimacy with God begins with awe. This deep respect for Him lays the foundation for a close, personal relationship that grows over time.
A Different Jesus
Knowing the true Jesus requires breaking free from cultural misconceptions. Awe allows us to see Jesus as He truly is, not as we want Him to be.
I Don’t Know You
Jesus’ warning “I don’t know you” is a sobering reminder that not all who claim to follow Him truly do. Awe keeps us from spiritual complacency, ensuring that our relationship with Christ is genuine.
The Secret of the Lord
God reveals His secrets to those who fear Him. Awe opens the door to these divine mysteries, allowing us to live with deeper insight into His will.
The Inside Scoop
Awe gives us the “inside scoop” on God’s plans. This spiritual discernment helps us to navigate life according to His purposes, rather than our own.
Face to Face
The ultimate goal of our spiritual journey is to see God face to face. Awe prepares us for this encounter, making us worthy to stand in His presence.
You Are My Friends
Being called a friend of God is a privilege that comes with responsibility. Awe helps us to live in a way that honors this friendship, cultivating a relationship that is both deep and enduring.
Week 6: The Treasure’s Benefits
The final week of the book highlights the benefits of pursuing awe of God. Bevere explores the establishment of God’s promises, the fear that eliminates other fears, the importance of legacy, and the ultimate treasure of life. He also discusses successful living, finishing well, and finding the true treasure.
Establishing His Promises
God’s promises are established in those who fear Him. Awe helps us to claim these promises, living in the assurance that God will fulfill His word.
The Fear that Eliminates Fears
Holy fear eliminates all other fears. When we live in awe of God, we gain a confidence that drives out anxiety and worry, enabling us to live boldly.
Legacy
A spiritual legacy is built on the foundation of awe. This legacy impacts not just our lives but the lives of future generations, leaving a lasting mark on the world.
The Most Important Thing
The core of the Christian faith is found in the fear of God. Awe helps us to prioritize what is most important, ensuring that our lives reflect the truths of the gospel.
Successful Living
True success is living in accordance with God’s will. Awe shapes our decisions, guiding us to live in a way that is pleasing to Him and fruitful in His kingdom.
Finishing Well
Finishing well is the goal of every believer. Awe sustains us on this journey, giving us the strength and perseverance needed to remain faithful until the end.
Finding the Treasure
The greatest treasure is found in God’s kingdom. Awe opens our eyes to this treasure, leading us to live in pursuit of the eternal riches that only He can provide.
Five Tools for Deepening Understanding and Application
At the end of each chapter, Bevere provides five practical tools to help readers deepen their understanding and apply the principles presented. These tools may include:
Prayer: Engage in regular, heartfelt communication with God, asking for insight and guidance.
Meditation: Reflect deeply on the truths revealed in each chapter, allowing them to transform your thinking.
Community: Discuss the concepts with fellow believers, gaining new perspectives and encouragement.
Obedience: Put into practice what you’ve learned, making God’s word a living reality in your life.
Worship: Cultivate a heart of worship, allowing awe to drive you to praise and glorify God daily.
Regularly engaging in these practices helps to deepen one’s understanding of God’s teachings, build a closer relationship with Him, and live a life that reflects holy fear. Additionally, readers are encouraged to continually seek God’s presence, make decisions with an eternal perspective, and live authentically according to His will.
Conclusion
“The Awe of God” is a powerful and transformative book that invites readers to rediscover the profound reverence and respect that should characterize our relationship with God. By exploring the concept of awe, its significance, and its practical application, Bevere provides a roadmap for spiritual growth and a deeper connection with the Almighty. Through personal reflection, Scripture study, prayerful meditation, journaling, and small group discussion, readers can deepen their understanding and apply the principles presented in this inspiring work.
May this book inspire you to embrace holy fear and draw closer to the awe-inspiring God!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the central message of “The Awe of God” by John Bevere?
Answer:
The central message of “The Awe of God” by John Bevere is the transformative power of living in holy fear—a deep, reverent awe of God’s majesty and holiness. Bevere emphasizes that this fear is not about being afraid of God but rather having a profound respect and wonder that leads to a life aligned with His will.
2. How does John Bevere define ‘awe’ in the context of the book?
Answer:
In the book, John Bevere defines ‘awe’ as a reverent wonder that arises when we truly recognize God’s infinite greatness. It is a dual experience of fear and respect, where the fear is rooted in God’s majesty and authority, leading to a transformative reverence that impacts every aspect of our lives.
3. Why is ‘holy fear’ important according to Bevere?
Answer:
‘Holy fear’ is important because it serves as the foundation for a proper relationship with God. According to Bevere, this fear is what drives us to live in a way that honors God, leading to spiritual growth, deeper intimacy with Him, and a life that is aligned with His purposes. Holy fear also protects us from sin and guides us towards true wisdom.
4. What are some practical ways to cultivate a healthy fear of God?
Answer:
To cultivate a healthy fear of God, John Bevere suggests practices such as regular prayer, meditation on God’s word, engaging in worship, and living in obedience to His commands. Building a community with fellow believers who encourage and challenge your spiritual growth is also essential. These practices help deepen your understanding of God’s nature and foster a reverence that permeates your daily life.
5. How does “The Awe of God” suggest we deal with worldly fears?
Answer:
“The Awe of God” suggests that worldly fears are overcome by cultivating a holy fear of God. When we live in awe of God’s power and sovereignty, it diminishes our fear of worldly concerns. This shift in focus from the temporary to the eternal provides confidence and peace, knowing that God is in control of every aspect of our lives.